Chaplain’s Corner GET READY FOR THE SHOW - Fr. Charles Menezes riends, this has been a long journey for me all over in the past two months. I met various kinds of people in various cities of India. Meeting people, en F countering various groups of students and people has made me more enthusiastic to work relentlessly for the movement in the coming days. We have been a preparing for the XVI National Council. Most of the Regions have selected their delegates and getting ready to take part in it. Travelling via road, tracks and air would be very interesting coz it will enthuse you all with a new vision for the movement in your Diocese and Region. It is a 10 day long deliberation and study session. It will mark the direction in which the movement needs to move ahead. Hope our efforts bear fruit. We need your support and prayers. Networking is the main aspect of the modern day. Social networking sites have been offering enough opportunities to express our concerns over several issues and that should help us getting to know the reality of the society and merge into it for the betterment of the society. The recent events like atrocities committed against women and girls are an eye opener for us to accept our shortcomings in dealing with human issues. Members of our movement should respond to it positively by respecting and accepting equality to all genders. In this issue we introduce you to a new organization working for the children to do advocacy, called nine is mine. Kindly get in touch with them and offer your help. It will open a new world for you. You will be blessed for doing that bit for the poor children of the world. There is no alternative to it unless we change ourselves. Let our National, meeting help us to look deep into the reality of the movement and the society and work in the right direction in the topic taken up for our study ‘Students’ education in the modern era’ By the next academic year you will have a set of new Constitution which will put your movement in the right perspective. Regions kindly need to put it in the regional language for the understanding of the members. Become members of the movement by paying Rs 2 each to the Diocesan, Regional and National offices. Also translate the study matter into the local language and prepare plan of lessons for the Cell meetings. It will make all of us study, analyze and campaign for the same issue taken up for the next three years. You have been preparing for exams for a long time. Do well. You have been involved in the movement and God will bless you with grace marks for doing that bit for the humanity and Mother Earth. We wish you all success in your endeavors. Come out with fine colors. Those who finish their term in the movement continue to work in the YCS/YSM spirituality by forming your own groups like College cells or City cells and Village YCS/YSM groups and continue to change the world. God bless you. See you again after the National Council with a new spirit and new strategy to work for the movement.

1 “Don’t worry, Be happy” The journey I enjoyed most recently fter a long wait in the office for a few things to get settled in the last quarter of the last year, A which never came through, I felt I should get out of it and do something worthwhile. I started my journey to Bhopal and had a fruitful meeting with our Chairman Archbishop Leo Cornelio who is a marvelous listener and great guide having a clear vision of what is required for youth and what he has to offer; then to Nagpur for the NTA/Exco meeting which was attended by many new faces where we could meet our former National Chaplain Fr. Johnny Monteiro, still young in spirit at the age of 76 and met Archbishop Abraham Viruthukulangara who can find a place among any age group, so fascinating person; then to Jalandhar via Delhi for ICYM Council meeting which helped me make lot of friends from all over India in which I could meaningfully make my point heard about why we ICYM and YCS/ YSM need to work together and how to do it; then to Patna for ICA training program with my friends Fr. Vijay Machado and Fr. Vijay Tellis, which helped me refresh myself in the catechetical aspect in the field of youth ministry which is the way I also listen and participate in the training programs besides talking a lot everywhere - there I met Fr. Choondal, a serene man knowing what he has to offer and our own Fr. Sabu a great host; then to Allahabad for Maha Kumbhmela, about which I have a story for you in the following paragraph; then to Kicha - Bareily to address the students of St. Peter’s School who will be a part of YCS/YSM from the next academic year; then to Kathgodom where I could meet the school dropout girls who are helped to pursue their studies again through the help of Bareily Diocesan Pastoral Centre with the help of Fr. Vijay and Fr. Pius and then took part in their Rally on atrocities committed against women, visited Nainithal and a had a good time there; then to Delhi to plan for the next training program for the northern region; then to Hyderabad to address the AP regional council about the movement which made us all to plan to revive the movement in AP and work together in the coming days and back to Chennai only to sustain a severe cold, cough and fever for 3 days. It was worth the journey. The journey from Nagpur to Delhi to Jalandhar to Delhi to Patna to Allahabad was so cold which made me shiver and had to beg Fr. Franklin for a thick bed sheet and that saved me. Maha Kumbhmela was a unforgettable incident in my life for two various reasons. Firstly I could see ocean of people flocking into Ganga River for a holy bath. The faith of the poor people, the akharas of Sadhus, and pilgrimage of people from all over India is a great scene to watch. I also did go to the Sangam on a boat and had a glimpse of people taking the holy dip which they believe will cleanse them from the sins and help them achieve holiness before God. The police personnel and volunteers have a hard time to manage the crowd but they do it with a large smile on their faces. A lot of foreigners also participate in the Mela.

2 Secondly it was a fateful evening where we were waiting for the train to Bereily at the Allahabad station where we were saved just by 10 meters from that stampede which killed 40 people. We felt so sorry for them crying hugging their near ones who lost their lives and injured. A large number of people were at the corner crying for their dear ones who were lost in the crowd especially the children and the elderly who wouldn’t know where to go and find their own. We had to go back to our shelter since the train never arrived that night. Thanks to Fr. Deepak, Fr. Aneesh and Mr. Akram who helped us a lot. Next morning we started our journey by bus at 8 am but at 12.30pm the bus broke down on the middle of the road. We waited there till 5pm on the road to repair the bus trying to stop other vehicles to give us a drop but nothing worked. The driver of the bus was so interesting person, so positive in the troubled times that he would fill us with positive strokes, not to be worried rather to have faith in him to reach us to the destination. Good heart but with a broken bus. Fortunately one of the fathers came to know about it and from Rae Bareily he drove towards us for 65 kms and took us to his house and gave shelter in his place. We were fortunate but we really felt bad for a few more people still stranded there. Next morning we started at 8 am from Rae Bareily to Lucknow and then to Bareily. We could reach Kicha at 9pm. There we took rest and next morning had a fruitful session for the students of St. Peter’s School who seem to be very much interested in the YCS movement. Fr. Royal did a good job in giving us a chance to introduce the movement there. Hope it will bear fruit. Then we went to Kathgodom where we encountered the school dropout girls who have come back to that centre to pursue their further studies. Besides study they have all kinds of extracurricular activities, they take active part in the social happenings, like they participated in the Rally held to protest against the atrocities committed against women in Delhi. They raise their voice without any fear. It is a great site to watch and a great job well done by the pastoral centre. At every step my friends Fr. Vijays would worry what to do next. I would only say Don’t Worry, Be Happy. God takes care of us and He did. It was a wonderful journey to cherish for long. - Fr. Charles Menezes Child without guide is wild CHILD RIGHTS Pride will be the child Child cries only the needs but Smiles always to thank Hug a child it will hug You a thousand, thousand times!!! I was a child Everybody was a child Every adult had a childhood Children make you adult!!! RIGHTS FOR CHILDREN, RIGHTS FOR FUTURE!!!! - N. AFROSE BANU, VIII, St. Anthony’s A. I. Hr. Sec. School, Egmore 3 he fifth NTA/EXCO meeting was held on 26th Tand 27th Jan 2013 at Archbishop’s House, Mohan Nagar, Nagpur. 5 RYDs, 9 EXCOs, 1DYD, 1 Regional Coordinator, 3 animators, 8 DEXCOs of Nagpur, and 7 other members were present for the meeting. Those who were present are the National Chaplain Fr. Charles Menezes, Fr. Ranjith, Neelmani, Arman and Vikas from Odisha, Fr. Philip, Melwin and Alice from M&G, Fr. Mari Joseph, Vilas and Jovita from , Mohith Michael from Bhijan, Laranzia from T.N., Jasica Robert, Jude Antony Augustine, Shareen and Neha from Jhansi, U.P., Frank Russel and Suzon Topno from Kolkata, W.B., Fr. Mark Lakra, Sr. Agnes, Sharmila Dhan and Johny Thongny from N.E., Fr. Balaswamy, Fr Fathima, Balaraj and Tania Maria, Sr, Rajith from Hyderabad, A.P., Leo Joseph from National office. Our Chairman Archbishop Leo Cornelio, RYD from Goa, T.N., Northern, Bhijan, M.P. were absent for the meeting. Meeting started at 11.am with prayer. Since the National Convener Joyce was unable to attend the meeting, Suzan the former convener presided over the meeting. Fr. Charles welcomed all. Jovita read out the report of last NTA/EXCO meeting. Follow up of the last NTA/EXCO meet: Letter to Archbishop Leo Cornelio regarding our concerns has been sent by the National team, Joyce John and Fr. Charles Menezes visited Bethel, the Venue of 16th National Council and finalized it, happy to know that most of the regions elected their REXCOs and DEXCOs and have also started collecting Rs.10 each from YCS/ YSM members as proposed in the last meeting towards NC contribution. Fr. Charles stressed on the fact that contribution from each student is important to give a sense of belongingness for the movement. He appreciated the contribution of Fr. Philip for sponsoring pens for council. We were also delighted to know that, the back page and inner page of our Souvenir were also sponsored by Fr. Richard of Jhansi, U.P., also Archbishop Leo has fulfilled his promise of giving Rs. 50, 000 and Fr. Fathima already collected Rs 10000 from coupons, as well as Chikmagalore unit has sent Rs 2000 for the NC from Hyderabad. Introduction was followed by the regional reports. Most of the regions are doing their job excellently and Fr. Charles encouraged them to do it better. Fr. George from the Seminary gave us spiritual talk in the evening in which he stressed on the problems that youth face in the modern world and how to counter the problems. Recollection was followed by mass and supper. Then we went through worksheet and decided on the job and responsibilities of each committee regarding NC. Fr. Charles gave a pattern for the regions to prepare their regional report which will be presented in the National Council.

4 Following is the list of committees and regions in charge: Documentation : Karnataka region Constitution and Amendments : A.P. region Evaluation Committee : T.N. & M.G. region Program Committee : U.P. and W.B. region Media and Souvenir : N.E. region Animation and Cultural Committee: Orissa and Bijhan regions Liturgy : Nagpur, M.G. region Finance : Sr. Agnes, Fr. Mark, N.E Region and National Office. 2nd day started with mass. Fr. Mari Joseph was the main celebrant and Fr. Fathima preached a meaningful sermon. After breakfast Suzan Topno briefed us about the preparation for 16th national council which will be held from 19th to 28th may 2013 at Bethel, Shillong, North East. Fr. Charles asked the regions to get a few things ready which depict the activities held in their regions to put up in an Exhibition at National Council. He asked the RYDs to organize a meeting for the participants in their region before they arrive at the Council, so that they prepare the delegates well for better participation and for which the preparatory document will be used. In the discussion regarding time table Fr. Mark RYD of N.E. requested that the participants to reach Gahwati on 18th May 2013, so that it will be easy for them to take the participants to the venue. Regarding the participation for National council, it will be one student from each diocese where YCS/YSM is functioning and for North East region 2 participants from every Diocese to take part in the formation session as the host region. Then we discussed about the budget and fund raising. Fr Charles presented the draft budget of the council. He requested the regions to help in raising fund for the council through coupons, advertisements and sponsoring some items. We moved on to very important aspects of our meeting i.e. Finalization of amendments to the constitution of YCS/YSM India. The draft of the constitution was read through word by word and several suggestions made by various regions were explained, discussed, corrected and approved. Archbishop of Nagpur Abraham Viruthukulangara visited us and posed for a photograph while sharing his experience about working with YCS/YSM. There was a surprise visit from Fr. Johnny Monteiro, former National Chaplain of YCS/YSM India. He interacted with us and gave a few guidelines as to how this movement emerged as one of the important one in the life of student community. He was full of life and all were happy to share a few moments with him.

5 After the tea break Fr Charles briefed us about the plight of Our National Office. He said our Office land issue has not yet been settled. Diocese of Madras-Mylapore has asked some more time for the settlement. We all hope that it will be settled before the council. In that case, Fr. Charles proposed an idea of shifting our working office to Delhi and working together with ICYM at CBCI Centre. It may also encourage some student volunteers to work at the National office to work for the movement in India. All the members approved this idea and decided to move ahead in this direction, which will be finalized in the forthcoming youth commission meeting at Jalandhar in consultation with ICYM and Chairman Bishop. Due to time constraint we had to wind up our meeting with this topic. Suzan thanked all those who were present for the meeting. Fr Charles thanked all the RYDs and NEXCOs for their continuous support for the movement. Thanks to Nagpur Region YCS/YSM for making arrangements for this meeting. Once again thanks to all RYDs and NEXCOs for their support. - Jovita D’Souza, National Secretary YCS/YSM India.

MY ROLE IN BUILDING A NEW SOCIETY

Every day I wake up with a dream A dream to build up the future A dream to build a new society Every minute I think of it Not wasting a single moment Cause itís my duty to build a new society Step by step moving forward Stone by Stone just turning To build a new society Day and Night I wonder Weeks and Months go by, all for a reason To build a new society.

- Antony Deepak Raj XI A, Dominic Savio Mat. School. Santhome

6 STUDENTS’ EDUCATION IN MODERN ERA- INTERCULTURALITY ny Festival we celebrate has a cultural context. Pongal and Onam are celebrated Ain the same way and we find youngsters are involved and actively take part in the same way. They know that they are the harvest festivals of two different states in our country but it never really matters. Our education system does not aggregate cultures but integrates them and makes learners understand other cultures and their positive interdependence This system contributes to peace, openness to other cultures, tolerance and respect for others. Even when there are certain misunderstandings amongst students from different cultures, it promotes dialogue between them and helps them accept the diversity of the cultures. Right from school students learn about different festivals and cultures and they find that most of the important festivals are celebrated thereby appreciating other cultures. The same continues in our colleges and universities which is a way to make people more open to differences. In a Multicultural country, we often find activities which reflect a particular culture or group. Diversity in linguistic skills, academic skills, culture, religion, race etc is the key component of cooperative learning. Any culture has local characters as well as a universal character. When people come together in educational institutions, culture is shared. CULTURE helps individuals to be aware of the inner self and of the collective systems. As human persons, it is sometimes difficult the ‘other community’ /culture/people/. Young People who do not share the same values and convictions when studying together in our institutions assess what they can expect from others based on the culture they believe in. Intercultural education promotes mutual understanding amongst youngsters and makes living together easier and there by a better world - Prof. Julia Pradeepa, Loyola College, Chennai Future programs: 1. LOC meeting at Bethel, Shillong on 5th April 2013 2. Village Exposure Camp at Kanajar, from 9-13 April 3. Delhi Diocesan YCS/YSM training in April 4. YCS/YSM National Council at Bethel from 19-28 May 2013 5. CAT Program in Bangalore from 1-10 June. Animators can take part in it. Contact ICYM office Delhi, Fr. Franklin D’Souza 6. NTA/Exco live in program in July 7. NSLTP in Hindi/ English in July 8. Organizing Bareily Diocesan YCS/YSM in July 9. World Youth Day in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil in July 10. ICYM National Youth Convention in October at Jalandhar, Punjab

7 DIARY OF ACTIVITIES OF YCSYSM CHENNAI S.No Date Name Of The Event Theme Students Participated

1. 23.11.2012 YCSYSM Founders Day Talent Exposure 400 2. 09.12.2012 Revival Of YCS Units Importance of ROL 100 At Thiruvallur Vicarete & Cell meeting 3. 03.02.2013 Inauguration Of YCS Units Introduction of YCS /YSM 50 At Avadi Vicarete and Basics of Cell Life 4. 16.02.2013 YCSYSM Annual Day Evaluation of YCSYSM 300 over the Year 2012-2013 5. 03.03.2013 Reunion Of Ex YCS/YSM 10 - Kamal Francis, Coordinator- Chennai Diocese

lack Skirt, white shirt with black overcoat Yes, this was my YCS uniform Bin school. I was in my 8th standard when I joined in YCS. The uniform fascinated me so much that I enrolled myself as a member of YCS. Unfortunately the uniform was changed the very same year. Disappointment struck me hard. One fine day, my animator informed me about the Inter regional training program that was going to be held in Andhra Pradesh. As soon as I heard the name of the place, I said ‘Yes’. I enjoyed the whole program the fullest. After enjoying five days in AP, I came back and recollected every bit of it to my madam. Patiently listening to all my joyful stories, she asked me a very simple question, ‘What did you gain from the program?’ I was left without an answer as fun was the one and only motive of mine. She just gave me a smile and moved away. Her smile was beyond definition and that made me think more on my own self and about others and I started to participate actively in YSM. I still believe that, that realization made me to become somebody today and I got elected as a National Exco too. YCS YSM is an ongoing formation. Seven years have passed and I am still learning a lot. It has helped me to grow both personally and spiritually. My world in which I live was very small but my prejudices went wrong as YCS helped me to make it a huge one family with friends, brothers and sisters. YCS gave me the courage to face this society with confidence and to tackle my problems with the methodology of the movement: Awareness, Reflection, Action and Evaluation. I am happy and convinced that I have inspired many students through my words and actions. I wish all my student friends a fruitful future. I thank my parents who always support me in my journey. Special thanks to Fr. Charles and Fr. Estha and all the RYDs, DYDs, EXCOs and all my friends for their love and presence. Though I am at the end of my EXCO term, I don’t consider this as the end of my YCS journey. Itís just the beginning of my mission in taking forward the values of YCS/ YSM to the world. - Laranzia, EXCO- TN

8 Dear Friends in YCS/YSM We are trying to put you in touch with another Children Organization called ‘NINE IS MINE’. It works mainly for the advocacy towards Child Rights. Given below are their demands which they put before the government and make the government hear the voices of the children. As we do in our own states and cities let us also join this movement and shout with one cry ‘GIVE US OUR DUE’ Kindly go through the demands made by them, choose any 6, and add the optional one to ask to invest 6% of GDP for Education and 5% of GDP for Health. Kindly return your following answer sheets to ‘NINE IS MINE’ office immediately. Be a part of Nation building and Responsible Proud Citizen of Democratic India. Address: NINE IS MINE, Edmond Rice Hall Basement, 1 Ashok Place, Bhai Vir Singh Marg, New Delhi - 110001 Ph: 9911602999 and 9990999640; Email: [email protected], [email protected]; Website: www.nineismine.in - Fr. Charles Menezes Join citizens across the globe in voting on how to support our planet & end poverty. In 2000, 193 governments agreed to achieve Eight Millennium Development Goals by 2015. The goals relate to ending poverty and hunger, education for all, equality among men and women, bringing down child and maternal deaths, attacking critical diseases like AIDS, malaria, and improving the environment. For India it is clear now that we will not be meeting our goals by 2015. In this backdrop, the United Nations has started a global discussion on what people across the globe think are important development goals or issues that need to be achieved. 9 The following survey will take you only 5 minutes to give your valuable opinion to the global policy community. Which of these are most important for you and your family? Choose 6 1. BETTER JOB OPPORTUNITIES This means that governments and private sector companies should do more to make sure that everyone can find a job where they earn a decent wage, and can contribute and feel valued as a productive member of society

2. A GOOD EDUCATION This means that all children should have a high quality primary and secondary education that equips them for employment and an enjoyable life. Governments and the private sector should work together to provide opportunities for lifelong learning and skills development for adults

3. BETTER HEALTHCARE This means that good quality health services should be available to everyone when they need treatment. Efforts should be made to reduce the impact of infectious and other chronic diseases. Both the funding and the organization of health systems should suit the needs of the country and its citizens

4. AFFORDABLE AND NUTRITIOUS FOOD This means that everyone should get the food they need. No person in the world should be constantly hungry, and no person should become malnourished, especially pregnant women and children aged less than two

5. SUPPORT FOR PEOPLE WHO CAN’T WORK This means that every person should have enough money to live on, either through employment or government help. When people canít work, or are affected by events like natural disasters or economic crises, governments should make sure that they and their families wonít go hungry, children wonít drop out of school, and they can get the healthcare and other essential services they need

6. FREEDOM FROM DISCRIMINATION AND PERSECUTION This means that no person in the world should have their economic, social or political opportunities limited because of their race, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual

10 preference, or for any other reason, and that no person should fear for their personal safety for the same reasons

7. ACCESS TO CLEAN WATER AND SANITATION This means that every person should have access to safe water for drinking, cooking and washing, and access to sanitation 8. RELIABLE ENERGY AT HOME This means that all family members should have reliable and affordable electricity or other sources of energy at home for lighting, heating and cooking. More of that energy should be sustainably generated

9. ACTION TAKEN ON CLIMATE CHANGE This means that governments should take on binding commitments to reduce carbon emissions to levels which can keep the global temperature rise below 2 degrees, and invest in adaptation measures particularly involving vulnerable communities

10. PROTECTING FORESTS, RIVERS AND OCEANS This means that natural resources should be looked after, because people depend on them for food, fuel and other resources. Governments should agree on plans to reduce pollution in oceans and rivers, plant new forests and preserve existing ones, and move towards sustainable agriculture and food systems. Global agreements should protect biodiversity and fragile ecosystems

11. AN HONEST AND RESPONSIVE GOVERNMENT This means that governments should be effective, transparent, accountable and not corrupt. People should have a say on what the governmentís priorities should be, and confidence that they will implement those priorities competently. Governments should agree and implement standards for making information available to all people on how public money is spent

12. BETTER TRANSPORT AND ROADS This means that transport and roads should be improved so that people can move freely and easily to visit their friends and families, find new economic opportunities and use the services they need

11 13. PROTECTION AGAINST CRIME AND VIOLENCE This means that all people should expect to live in a community that protects them from the threat of crime and violence. This should include domestic violence and sexual assault against women and girls. Every person should be able to get justice through a court or other system if they are victims of a crime

14. EQUALITY BETWEEN MEN AND WOMEN This means that men and women should have the same rights and opportunities. Boys and girls should have equal access to school and the same quality of education; men and women should stand the same chance of getting elected to parliaments, have the same chances to be involved in political and social life, and experience the same opportunities and rewards in the workplace

15. PHONE AND INTERNET ACCESS This means that governments and the private sector should make sure that everyone has access to a minimum level of communications technology to get online information and participate in social networks

16. POLITICAL FREEDOMS This means that every person should be able to play a part in political processes in their own country, including through voting and forming or joining political parties. People should be able to exercise freedom of expression including through free media. People should be able to join and participate in trade unions and all aspects of civil society including diverse forms of civic engagement and voluntary action

*ADD YOUR OWN (OPTIONAL) *NINEISMINE campaign strongly recommends that each of you includes the following as one of the six priorities you choose. INVEST IN EDUCATION (6%) AND HEALTH (5%) This means that you want all governments of the world to invest at least (if not more than) 6% of their GDP’s (governments spending) on Education and 5% on Health as recommended by the UNESCO and WHO respectively.

I AM: MALE/ FEMALE ___ AGE _____ COUNTRY ______EDUCATION ______12 YCS/YSM FORMATION SESSION & XVI NATIONAL COUNCIL 2013 - NORTHEAST

What is National Council: The National Council is the Apex Body of the Movement. It is held once in every three years, having selected student representatives and animators from every diocese and region along with the NTA/Exco who are the organizers. It consists of Input sessions, Exposure, Regional and National Reports and Evaluation findings which help the delegates to analyze, study, reflect and to plan so as to give future direction to the whole Movement. The XVI YCS/YSM National Council will be held from 19th to 28th May 2013 at Bethel, Shillong, Northeast. The Study Theme of the Council is ‘Students Education in the modern era’ and the thrusts on Interculturality, Religious Pluralism and Universal culture of Love and Life. Around 200 delegates from 12 regions across the country will be participating in it. An evaluation of the Movement has been already done as a preparation for the Council.

A. INTRODUCTION AND BASIC INFORMATION: 1. The objectives of the National council are as follows: w To review and evaluate the action plan of the previous three years. w To evaluate the movement reality w To respond with concrete plans to the issues affecting the society w To enlighten and empower the students to face the society w Time of deeper reflection, evaluation and planning w To challenge and to move towards realization of our dreams w To focus more on the History and the spirituality of the Movement. w To elect and approve the new National Executive Committee members w To make amendments to the constitution and internal rules w To make decisions on the basic policies and the orientation of the movement. w To select a particular issue related to the life of the students for study w To make action plan at cell/unit/diocese/region/national level for the next 3 years.

2. CRITERIA FOR SELECTING THE DELEGATES * One delegate from each diocese. * Gender equality has to be seen at regional level. * They should have at least two years of experience in the movement * Willing to dedicate his/her service for 2 years in the movement. * Language should not be a barrier in selecting a genuine and active member. * Animators as allotted by the committee

13 3. NATIONAL THEMES Date & Year Place Theme 1966 Leisure activities 1967 Encounter with Christ 1968 Who am I? 1969 At home in todays world. 28th Dec. 1969 1st Jan. 1970 Poona Say it as it really is. 1971 Towards a world without refugees 7 - 13th May 1972 Bangalore The world around us: our concern. 22 - 29th May 1975 Bangalore My response to our people. 1977 A new India : my responsibility. 27th Dec. 1977- 2nd Jan. 1978 Nagpur My school today and tomorrow. 1979 Reaching out the deprived child. 17 - 27th May 1980 Poona Education for our people. 1981 Education for a fuller life 18 - 28th May 1983 Coonoor Option for the poor (Part - I) in the school 1984 Option for the poor (Part - II) in the society 18 - 28th May 1986 Ranchi Students moved by faith towards option for the poor 14 - 24th May 1989 Kazipet God experience. Mass Media and Education 15 - 25th May 1992 Mysore Communal Harmony, Education of the heart and environment 18 - 28th May 1995 Madras Learn to Live, Live to Grow, Grow to Change 14 - 24th May 1998 Calcutta Enlightening the people for harmonious living God’s Challenge today. 14 - 24th May 2001 Sec-bad Believe in Childrens Dignity - Strengthen their Rights. 9 - 19th May 2004 Goa Children, Image of the Divine, Ensure fullness of Life 11th - 18th May 2007 Kovalam, Chennai Empowering relationships for sustainable justice and peace 14th - 20th May 2010 Responding to God’s call to be simple, sincere and sensitive persons, let us envision and build a green and harmonious world

National Council members: Clarification The present Exco members, RYDs/ RCs, 1 student member each from every Diocese where YCS/YSM exists, 8 ex members, 12 invitees (former national chaplains and representatives of other student movements), Secretary - CBCI Office for Youth, 1 Moderator, National Chaplain, National Coordinator(s), Chairman Bishop of Office for Youth and Resource persons. Clarified: In the case of One Diocese - One Region - 5 student members, any region having YCS/YSM in less than 5 dioceses - 5 student members and more than 5 dioceses an additional 1 each per diocese shall take part in the National Council as delegate.

14 4. THE NEW NATIONAL EXCO’S * They should be genuine and active members willing to render a service at all three Levels. (National/Regional/Diocesan) * They should have effective leadership skills * They should be willing to serve for the complete term of three years * They should be selected / elected and approved by the RTS and RTA. * They should be entering Class XII or below at the time of their election. * They should have actively participated in the Movement at least 2 years. * They should be able to travel across the country on their own. 5. THE PROGRAMME The council is the highest body of the movement. It guides the course of the movement. It sets the orientations, priorities and theme for the movement. There will be reports (National, Regional, and Evaluation reports), Exposures, study sessions and theological reflections. Also there will be a cultural exchange and evolving a theme, amendments, constitution, election of the New Exco’s and the new NT, etc. 6. SCHEDULE OF THE NATIONAL COUNCIL 19th pm - Arrival and registration; Putting up of Regional exhibition, Introductions, Expectation sharing, Committee division, Rationale 20th - Orientation to the Council & Present day reality of the movement, Presentation of the new Excos, Inaugural Mass Inauguration of the Council and Exhibition - Key note address on theme Welcome performance by LOC 21st - SEE - Orientation to Exposure - Based on the new theme Exposure - Experience Sharing, Reporting on the exposure 22nd - JUDGE - Deepening of the theme & Thrusts Input on Interculturality - Reflection on Study theme YCS spirituality, Theological Reflection & Review of Life Input on Promoting culture of love and life - Reflection on Study theme 23rd - Input on Religious Plurality - Reflection on Study theme Deliberation on Cell life, Cell meeting, Animation ACT - Evolving the theme, deepening the theme, Plan of action for the forthcoming 3 years - Personal, Regional, National. 24th - National Council Proceedings: Agenda of the National Council, Introduction of process, Rule of procedure, Regional Reports based on National theme & thrusts - Climate change, Food crisis and Human rights, YCS/YSM National Movement Evaluation Report, NT report National Office Report, Presentation of Financial statement, Presentation of Budget, Draft of Council Statement 25th - Study and approval of YCS/YSM Constitution and amendments, Election of NT 26th - Darshan - Chirapunji, Mass, Caves, Shillong Peak, Museum, Cathedral, Shopping 27th - Final statement - Presentation and voting, Evaluation, - Concluding Mass / programme - Handing over of NT, LOC night/Campfire 28th - Departure

15 B. STUDY SESSION * Theme * Sessions on movement reality and theme * Reports * Guidelines to the reports * Exposure * Spirituality and Theological reflection 1. GUIDELINES FOR THE REGIONAL REPORTS General Information: Present it in a soft and hard copy ☯ Local Name, Logo, theme song ☯ Number of members, cells and units ☯ Orientation at Regional level - based on the national theme ☯ Activities, achievements, limitations, challenges and future perspectives. ☯ Highlights of the events of past 3 years with participantsí faith experiences ☯ Any other important information that to be shared. ☯ The RTA/RTS should be involved in preparing the regional report ☯ Creative way of presenting the report is encouraged. 2. EXPOSURE: All the participants shall go to different places in Northeast to experience the reality connected with Education - Right to education and challenges in the context of Interculturality and Religious pluralism and Universal culture of love and life. This will be of one full day. This awareness is part of our methodology. There will be a sharing and report on the exposure and it will be continued in the evolution and deepening of the new theme and thrusts. 3. SPIRITUALITY & THEOLOGICAL REFLECTIONS Orientation to the council, Input session on the movement and ROL, every thought and event will be reflected with faith dimension. 4. FRUITFUL COUNCIL ☯ Select the members who have actively participated in the movement at least two years ☯ Select those who can critically reflect on the issues and study theme Some questions for personal reflections to prepare for the council. ☯ How to realize the uniqueness of the movement? ☯ How to make the movement more effective? ☯ How to put the findings of the evaluation committee in practice? ☯ Concrete ways of realizing the students Nature, Internationality, Spirituality of the movement. ☯ Role and impact of the movement in education, student rights, communal harmony, social justice, church, family, school, ecology etc. ☯ Animator, Animation and growth of the person and the movement 5. RUNNING OF THE COUNCIL: The NTA/EXCO with the help of the L.O.C run the council. So every person should feel fully responsible for the council. We need to be very responsible with regard to punctuality, participation, relationship etc. We under the pretext of the movement should not shirk our responsibility.

16 6. LITURGY Each day is allotted to a region for the liturgy. The liturgy committee will fix the days theme and the days of prayer. 1st day 19.05.2013 - Students for Love & Friendship - Excos 2nd day 20.05.2013 - Students for Knowledge & understanding - Northeast 3rd day 21.05.2013 - Students for Educational rights - Northern & Goa 4th day 22.05.2013 - Students for Interculturality - Andhra Pradesh 5th day 23.05.2013 - Students for Justice and Peace - Tamil Nadu 6th day 24.05.2013 - Students for Human rights - West Bengal & Orissa 7th day 25.05.2013 - Students for Christian Leadership - Bijhan & M.G. 8th day 26.05.2013 - Students for Committed service - Madhya Pradesh 9th day 27.05.2013 - Students for Spread of Good News in religious diversity- Karnataka 10th day 28.05.2013 - Students for a New World (Culture of love & life) - Excos 7. CULTURAL PROGRAMMES: There will be cultural programmes on all days: On 1st day by the Excos. On inauguration (2nd) day by the hosting Northeast region, On 3rd, 5th and 7th day group wise, On 4th and 6th day region-wise, on 8th day common recreation and 9th day is LOC night and campfire. Each region is allotted 15 minutes and the presentation should be on the theme or on the culture of the region. The programme will take place from 8.45 p.m. to 10.00 p.m.

This is a letter to the rich mainly Talking about the problems we suffer mainly When I say rich I donít mean the wealthy Who I say mean are the people who have the capacity Of supporting us and spending money lavishly As you know half of us are abandoned Most of us are maltreated and undernourished Dying from hunger, thirst or even deserted In schools, streets and every public place we are harmed Orphans we are, illegal we are, poor we are, are always ignored Why don’t we have a family stem??? The parent’s fault, but we pay the price of the problem Am I an experimental rat to endure such venom? Am I big enough to work in a mine, collecting tin, copper and gem?? Our time has passed, we are used to it now. We are condemned A day will come where we will revolt and fight World spring throughout day and night For we will appear over earth and see the light We don’t demand power, we demand to be seen by public sight We demand justice and most of all we demand child’s right - R.RAMYA, VIII B, St.Anthony’s Girls Hr. Sec .School, Mandaveli 17 - Cultural evenings: - On 19th EXCO will organize icebreaking and group dynamics - On 20th LOC will present evening cultural programme besides inauguration - On 21st, 23rd and 25th May common recreation by groups. - On 4th day(22nd May) 6 regions namely: Bijhan, North East, W. B, A.P., Northern and U.P. - On 6th day (24th May) 6 regions namely: T.N., M.G., M.P., Orissa, Karnataka and Goa - On 26th May Common recreation ñ Talent exposure - On 27th LOC night. 8. EXHIBITION: The Exhibits should provide knowledge and enlightenment on history, activity, achievements and culture of the particular region. It can include photo albums, charts, publications, newsletters/magazines or any other articles. Each region will be allotted a place for the Exhibition by the Exhibition Committee on your arrival. Come prepared. You may get a banner for the background. 9. REGISTRATION: The registration fee Rs. 500/- and the T.A will be borne by the region/ diocese/delegate. Avail railway concession. Filled registration forms with 2 passport size photographs have to reach the national and northeast regional office by the end of 30th March 2013. The arrival and departure time need to be made to the organizers by March end to make necessary arrangements. Things to be brought by the delegates: Two bed sheets, Towel and toilet articles, Cultural dress, Bible, Songs and plays, Vernacular hymns for mass, Medicines, One page of their faith experience in the movement, Mementoes to be shared with their friends and local sweet items to be shared with all at inauguration. 10. FUND RAISING: A) Each student member of YCS/YSM India shall contribute a sum of Rs 10 towards the National Council for which Rs 10 Donation coupons are sent to all the dioceses/ regions which shall be distributed to the units for collection from student members and their families and friends. B) Each member shall help us collect some amount from their school/parish/units through various fund raising activities. C) Each Region shall contribute Rs. 10,000 towards NC. D) Advertisements shall be collected for the Souvenir and the sponsor proposal is sent to you. E) Donations and gift offerings shall be requested from friends, religious institutions, parishes, Dioceses, MNCs and other firms to meet the expenses. F) Hosting region shall try to get sponsors for various items as per their discretion which will lessen the burden of the expenditure. 11. MEMENTOES: Delegates may bring some souvenirs and local food items to be shared with the participants and your new friends. 12. Constitution and Amendments: The new draft of the Constitution is prepared with all the suggestions and amendments given by you are added into it. Kindly study it before arriving to the NC. A whole day will be spent to understand, clarify, approve and vote this constitution, which will be presented to CBCI Standing committee for their approval.

18 Report of the activities of the National Chaplain: 1. Training to the Animators and student leaders on 7th, 8th and 9th Nov 2012 at Belgaum. Around 200 participated in it. 2. Participated in Mangalore Diocesan Youth Convention at Allipade and offer mass for them on 11th Nov 3. Participated in Udupi Diocesan YCS annual meet at Kallianpur on 12th Nov. Nearly 800 members of YCS belonging to 11th and 12th grade took part in it. It had competitions and spiritual activities organized. It was a great organization by Fr. Edwin D’Souza the Director of Udupi Diocese. 4. Took part in the meeting organized by Francis D’Cunha on 6th Jan 2013 to prepare the resource book for YCS/YSM 5. Visited NERYC office Guwahati and Bethel, Shillong on 20th and 21st Jan for the preparatory meeting of National Council. Thanks to Fr. Mark and Sr. Agnes 6. Met Archbishop Leo Cornelio on 25th Jan at Bhopal to clarify a few official issues and to brief him about the forthcoming National Council 7. Held NTA/Exco meeting at Nagpur on 26-27 Jan. Thanks to Fr. Philip and Nexco of Nagpur. 8. Met the Seminarians who go for school ministry and briefed them all on YCS/YSM movement at St. Charles Seminary, Nagpur on morning of 26th Jan. Around 100 brothers took part in it. Thanks to Fr. Rector 9. Conducted a day’s program on Leadership for the YCS/YSMers at Nagpur on 28th Jan. Nearly 80 members participated in it. Ex members like Suzan and Exco helped us. 10. Took part in ICYN Council meeting at Jalandhar, Punjab from 31st Jan to 3rd Feb. Ideas shared and resolved to work together in future. Visited Amritsar Golden Temple, Wagah Border and Jalianwalabagh on 3rd Feb. 11. Participated in the ICA meeting at Patna 6-8 Feb. 12. Visited Maha Kumbhmela at Allahabad on 9-10 Feb.

19 13. Session on YCS/YSM to St. Peter’s School students at Kicha on 12th Feb. Around 300 students took part in it. 14. Session on life skills to girls at Kathgodom on 13th Feb. and then visited Nainithal 15. Took part in AP regional youth council on 15-16 Feb at Hydeabad and briefed them on the movement and urged them to organize the students and teenagers 16. Participated in the Karnataka regional youth council meeting on 23rd Feb at Bangalore and urged the youth and DYDs to organize and revive the movement in Karnataka. 17. Was in Delhi on 1st March for office work. 18. Training on Encountering Christ for the students at Derebail on 10th March. 95 students took part in it.

HUMAN RIGHTS

Tell me what’s wrong with society All the time I look I see People falling over the same line called poverty While rich guys spending their money On diet pills, surgery & photo shopped pictures on magazines Why canít they spend a little time for helping their fellow beings? Everyone are fighting like enemies Making it feel like its world war III Human Right is all we need now To have a picture of the perfect society And a world filled with treasure - G. K. Malathi XI A, Sacred Heart Mat. Hr. Sec. School, Church Park

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